Dear Editor: During his time as pastor of St. Michael’s Church in Sunset Park, Brooklyn, Father Patrick Burns served as a Clergy Liaison with the 72nd Precinct. Father Burns was always there for the NYPD whether in times of crisis or just to share a light hearted moment and his efforts to bridge police and community were unparalleled.
Father Pat, thank you for your service. You are loved and missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing you. God bless you.
FRANK SICLARI
Via Website
Editor’s Note: Frank Siclari is a retired NYPD officer.
Dear Editor: Father Patrick was indeed beloved by my family as we grew close to him through my brother, Steven and their friendship (Obituaries, Dec. 22). We are all very saddened and shocked to hear of his passing and obvious suffering.
When I think of Pat I see him being very animated and always smiling, telling funny jokes or stories, and treating us to some wonderful experience.
An extremely generous and selfless soul surely has a place with the God he chose to serve.
I hope you are resting in peace now. I’ve missed you and will forever miss you now.
CATHY SIMONELLI
Via Website
Dear Editor: I am so disheartened to hear of Patrick’s passing. He was a wonderful, caring, and compassionate person. Our family will deeply miss him.
Rest in peace, dear cousin. You will always have a place in my heart.
MARIANNE BURNS CAMPACCI
Via Website
Dear Editor: I am a recent Floridian. Upon returning to Brooklyn for my 96-year old dad’s surgery, I attended Sunday Mass at my old parish, Holy Name. Father Patrick was the celebrant; and after his inspiring homily, I approached him after Mass. I explained that my dad was elderly and having surgery the next day, and I asked him to pray for him.
He immediately offered to come to the house to anoint my dad. I explained that we’d both love that, but I walked half a mile in the rain to Mass. That didn’t deter him…
He walked with me in the rain to anoint my dad. I enjoyed our conversation and was blessed to see Father Patrick again to thank him and let him know dad’s surgery went well.
I was forever touched by him and his kindness. My heart is saddened by our loss.
May God have mercy on him and may eternal rest be granted to him.
KATHERINE COX
Via Website
Dear Editor: Rest in peace, dear friend. May He raise you up on eagles wings, bear you on the breath of God and make you to shine like the sun and hold you in the hollow of His hand.
KIERAN O’DONOGHUE
Via Website
Dear Editor: With overwhelming sadness, I am writing to remember my friend, Father Patrick.
My memories are of Patrick’s loving, selfless and gentle service to his family, the community, parishioners, the NYPD, myself and my family and the God he cherished.
I always felt comforted to be included in Patrick’s prayers. Now I take comfort to know, Patrick is in peace remembering all as he prays and sings with the angels in
heaven.
Patrick, you will be forever missed but only a prayer away.
EILEEN A. AULD
Via Website
Editor’s Note: Eileen A. Auld is a retired NYPD officer.
Dear Editor: Though we had only chatted once since his ordination, I knew him from the good old Christian Awakening on Humboldt Street.
It must have taken tremendous courage to answer the call to priesthood at this juncture of history – a terribly challenging time for all Catholics.
All of us need to pray for the grace to accept God’s abundant mercy.
JOE TEVINGTON
Via website
Dear Editor: I attended St. Michael’s Church, when most of my life, it was Father Burns who was the priest. He held a special place in my family’s heart. He was so friendly. I’m shocked and quite saddened of his loss.
May he rest in peace, and may he be remembered for the greatness he once was.
ALEX EUCEDA
Via Website